Family says Howe recovering at 'remarkable rate'

LUBBOCK, Texas (AP) Gordie Howe's family says the hockey Hall of Famer who had a stroke last month has been ''recovering at a remarkable rate'' over the past week.

The family released a statement through the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday night. The family cited improvements in Howe's speech and his ability to walk with the assistance of a walker, and thanked ''friends and fans worldwide for their prayers and incredible outpouring of support.''

The 86-year-old Howe suffered a significant stroke on Oct. 26 in Texas, where his daughter lives.

The man known as ''Mr. Hockey'' set NHL marks with 801 goals and 1,850 points - mostly with the Red Wings - that held up until Wayne Gretzky surpassed him in the record book.